…His return, death of opposition in Enugu, says Chukwunweike, PDP Chair
…It ushers in united front for development Council Chairman
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Isi-Uzo Local Government Area, Enugu State, hosted a grand reception over the weekend to welcome Hon. Chijioke Edeoga, the Labour Party’s governorship candidate from the 2023 general election. Dr. Martins Chukwunweike, the state Chairman of the PDP, described Edeoga’s return as heralding the end of opposition in the state.
Council Chairman Barr. Obiora Obeagu also highlighted that Edeoga’s return signifies a united front for development in both Isi-Uzo and Enugu State.
The vibrant homecoming event took place in Ikem, the headquarters of Isi-Uzo LGA, and featured a reception at the residence of former PDP Chairman, Hon. Augustine Nnamani.
During the occasion in Ikem, Dr. Chukwunweike praised the former LP governorship candidate for accepting the offer of fellowship and partnership, affirming that the Enugu PDP is steadfastly dedicated to fairness, equity, and inclusive development.
“Let us work together. Rest assured that what is happening today is just the beginning of a better tomorrow for all of us. Our Governor is determined to ensure that things go well. He wants all of us to be part of the development he is bringing.
“The Governor is our leader, but he cannot lead alone. He needs our people to work with him to deliver. Enugu has remained a PDP state, and it will continue. In 2027, we will return to our normal PDP days,” he stated.
In his welcome address, Barr. Obeagu credited Edeoga’s return to the former LP chieftain’s strong democratic credentials and the transformative leadership of Governor Peter Mbah. He expressed gratitude to state and zonal party leaders for their efforts in “collapsing opposition and reuniting party members in the state”, noting that a new PDP has emerged in Enugu under Dr. Chukwunweike’s leadership.
The Council Chairman further emphasised Governor Mbah’s numerous development initiatives and the steps taken by the Isi-Uzo Council to follow in the governor’s footsteps, urging the people of Isi-Uzo to unite for the progress of the local government.
“We are welcoming you home with open hands and hearts. I make bold to say that the magnanimity of our governor and the bold step taken by our dear brother and his supporters is an open cheque for us to chart a great future for the people of Isi-Uzo Local Government. It presents a united and uncommon front for development.
“It is also a paradigm shift from the way politics is played in Enugu State. It shows that you are a true democrat, who understands that the end of governance is the public good. So, I commend you and your teeming supporters for this demonstration of sportsmanship by towing the line of peace, unity, and rapprochement.
“Your return is a massive addition to the political profile of Isi-Uzo Local Government and a great gain in our development drive. I, therefore, urge those who fan the embers of division and hatred for their own selfish interests to desist from such acts, as the train of Isi-Uzo is already moving,” he concluded.
Edeoga, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to the party leadership for their efforts in unifying all political stakeholders, describing Governor Mbah as a sophisticated individual equipped with the experience and qualities necessary to elevate Enugu State to remarkable heights.
He reiterated that his decision to return to the PDP was motivated by principles of justice, fairness, and the urgent need to advance Isi-Uzo Local Government and the state.
“We have made a case for Isi-Uzo, and the consciousness is there; it has become a national and international issue. We must continue to make a case for Isi-Uzo. So, please, take this message home that Isi-Uzo is hungry for inclusion,” he remarked.
Hon. Jacob Abonyi, the Chairman of PDP in Isi-Uzo LGA, formally welcomed the returnees back into the party fold, expressing his happiness over the development.
The event was attended by key stakeholders from Isi-Uzo, including Hon. Gabrial Eze, representing Isi-Uzo in the House of Assembly; HRH Igwe Okey Ogbodo, Chairman of the Isi-Uzo Traditional Rulers Council; HRH Igwe Philemon Obeagu, traditional ruler of Ebor Ishiala Eha-Amufu; Prof. Sam Ugwu, Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change; and former state PDP Chairman, Nnamani, among others.
